7 Courses Required
Family systems theory teaches us that no individual exists in isolation—the thoughts, behaviours and emotional well-being of one member inevitably affect the entire family system. Whether you work primarily with individuals, couples or families, having a strong grasp of relational dynamics and systemic frameworks is essential to fully understanding and supporting your clients.
This certificate provides a comprehensive, skill-based introduction to key theories and evidence-informed approaches to family and couples counselling. You'll explore modalities such as emotionally focused therapy (EFT), cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), ecosystemic structural family therapy (ESFT) attachment theory and internal family systems (IFS). Each model offers unique tools to help you navigate the complexities of relationship dynamics and intervene effectively at both the individual and systemic levels.
In addition to theoretical foundations, the program delves into some of the most common challenges families and couples face, including addiction, separation and divorce, domestic violence, intimacy struggles, infertility and grief. By the end of the program, you'll be equipped with practical strategies and a broader clinical lens to support your clients through the nuanced and often sensitive realities of family life.
Completion Requirements
To complete the Family and Couples Counselling certificate, you must select a minimum of seven courses from the list on the right. You can complete this certificate in as little as one year or take up to seven years. You do not have to be working toward the Family and Couples Counselling certificate to take any of these courses. These courses can be taken in any order.
Participation and Attendance
Full attendance and participation are required to complete these courses. Participants are requested, as much as possible, to have their cameras on. We know there are situations where this is not possible, so please send a message to your instructor or the Professional Development host to let them know that you are unable to turn on your camera. Our courses are interactive and include breakout rooms, role play, group discussions and other activities. Participation is required.
Four + Discount
Register for four or more courses at once to apply a 10% discount in your cart on the cost of each course. You must register and pay for all courses at the same time; discount is not cumulative or retroactive. If discount is not being applied at time of registration, contact fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca for assistance. Discount cannot be applied after registration is complete.
Delivery Options
The Family and Couples Counselling certificate courses are available remotely through Zoom.
Becoming a Therapist
Completing the Family and Couples Counselling certificate will not qualify you to register with any college or association, including the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers or the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Please visit those websites for information on becoming a therapist in Ontario, or your provincial regulatory college.
Registration
No application is required. To register, select a course from the menu of the right, then a course section to view the dates and cost or add the course to your cart. Complete your registration with payment.
Contact Information
For more information about this certificate contact the Faculty of Social Work Professional Development office:
Email: fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca
Phone: 548-889-4967
See our website and Frequently Asked Questions for more information.